On November 7, 2025, we’re hosting our tenth conference, ReimaginEd: Shaping the Future of Ontario PSE.
It’s no secret that the higher education sector in Ontario is in the midst of a massive upheaval. Aging infrastructure, shifting demographics, limited resources, generative AI and changes to immigration policy are reshaping the playing field for colleges and universities across the province. These issues — among others — were top of mind for us when we chose system design as the theme of this year’s conference.
Why is ReimaginEd important?
It’s in moments of uncertainty that we need to gather, collaborate and open discussion about the issues that matter most to us. Shying away from the hard questions only takes us further from solutions. And no matter the role each of us plays in the higher ed sector, our collective success relies on a well-designed and effective postsecondary system that prioritizes access, quality and sustainability. So, our goal is to make this event one that brings together diverse perspectives and encourages innovation and resourcefulness to explore new ways forward.
Our planning team has put together a variety of session topics and session types featuring speakers and panelists from across the province. In addition to panel discussions, we will host community cafés, roundtables and a mini keynote.
Who is ReimaginEd for?
This event is intended for everyone with an interest in the design, performance and quality of Ontario’s higher education sector. As an arm’s length government agency, HEQCO’s work exists at the intersection of MCURES, postsecondary institutions and community organizations, and this positioning affords us a unique perspective on the sector. HEQCO’s primary function is research, but much of that work can’t happen without input from and collaboration with our various partners across the sector. ReimaginEd gives us the opportunity to convene and collaborate: to bring together a variety of perspectives, spotlight important partnerships, promote the work of others and hear from those working at institutions alongside government, school boards and community groups.
The agenda includes speakers from the Business + Higher Education Roundtable, Hamilton Community Foundation, Labour Market Information Council, the Social Research and Demonstration Corporation and many others, as well as expert institutional practitioners who are on the frontlines. In addition to being a chance to hear different perspectives, we want this day to be one that fosters new connections with others in the sector and those working alongside it.
What will you learn?
Our conference planning team has curated sessions that are diverse, creative and focused on solutions. Our day begins with a keynote address by Dr. Pamela Palmater, a leading scholar, activist and relentless advocate for education. Following Dr. Palmater’s address, you’ll have your choice of four sessions in each of three breakout blocks over the course of the day, which lead into our closing plenary focused on lifelong learning.
Throughout the day, attendees will have the chance to learn more about accountability in institutional use of artificial intelligence; hear from those running programming to support newcomers to Ontario; receive advice from those leading campus support initiatives; and hear from employers about what they are looking for in new hires.
ReimaginEd: Shaping the Future of Ontario PSE will be HEQCO’s tenth conference and will take place on Friday, November 7 at the Delta Hotel Toronto.